Student Machine Shop

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Improper use of the student shop can result in loss of privilege, injury, or death. It is imperative that you follow all rules outlined here and those outlined during your shop training.
 
 

1. Do not attempt to use the student shop if you have not had proper training.

 
  Currently enrolled grad students who have passed the 2 week machine shop course are permitted to use the shop during the day and after hours. When using the shop after hours, no one is permitted to work alone. This is for safety reasons. You can bring someone who has not had training (or is not from our department), but they must not use any equipment.  
  2. Keep the student shop secure.  
Each research group has a group key to access the shop after hours. If you are working in there after hours, you are responsible for locking the doors behind you. If you are in the shop at 4:30, you will be asked to leave if you cannot produce a key. Our group key is on a large brass key ring and is stored in the desk by the Thermal Analysis system. Do not leave the key lying around. If our key is lost or stolen, we will not be allowed to have another one.
  3. If you are not certain about the operation of a piece of equipment- ASK SOMEONE.  
It is not uncommon for people to be injured on machine shop equipment. Simply leaving the chuck key in the lathe can cause you to lose an eye. Also, the equipment is fairly rugged, but the tools are expensive and easily destroyed. Understanding how to use these tools can extend their life and ensure you have something to work with next time.
  4. Wear proper attire and SAFETY GLASSES.  
Even if you do everything right, there is a chance material will fly into your eye. Do not go into the shop without safety glasses on. Your regular glasses are not adequate, as material can come around the side. Also, chips and hot oil will fly onto the rest of you as well. Wear clothes that protect your skin and are not too baggy. Baggy clothes, long hair, or jewelry can get caught in rotating parts and seriously injure you.
  5. Clean up after yourself.  
When you are finished with a machine, put the tools away and use a brush to get the chips off. Sweep up the chips around your machine and put them in the can by the door.